A Guide to Living in San Antonio (Oct. 17th - 23rd)
Hey y'all,
Cory here.
Welcome to your Thursday Guide to Living in San Antonio.
Here's this week's list of timeless and timely recommendations to help you connect better with the Alamo City.
đ Dia de Los Muertos is fast approaching, and I think it's well worth thinking ahead about what events you'd like to attend. That's why this week I'm sharing a curated list of a few events that exemplify our city's upcoming celebration.
Of course, there are other fun fall and Halloween events to share, too.
As always, don't hesitate to reply with your own tips and recommendations (I'll be happy to feature them in a future newsletter) or if you'd like to say "hello."
Enjoy!
âď¸ Featured Recommendations of the Week:
đ Dia de Los Muertos in San Antonio
DĂa de los Muertos, traditionally celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, is a special time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed. San Antonio is home to some of the largest DĂa de los Muertos celebrations in the United States, blending ancient Mexican traditions with modern cultural festivities. From colorful altars and processions to art installations and live performances, these events capture the essence of life and death, celebrated with joy and reverence.
Hereâs a list of canât-miss events that my family and I are attending this year. San Antonioâs rich cultural heritage makes it the perfect city to immerse yourself in this unforgettable celebration. Plan ahead!
đ Dia de Los Muertos River Parade on The River Walk
San Antonioâs Day of the Dead River Parade is one of the city's most iconic celebrations. It features elaborately decorated barges that glide down the River Walk. Each barge is adorned with beautiful altars, vibrant Catrinas, and costumed riders, all paying tribute to life and loved ones. The parade starts at 7 PM from the Weston Centre, with the first float reaching Arneson River Theatre around 7:45 PM.
If youâd like to attend, tickets are selling out fast, so make sure to grab yours while you can. This is a must-see event that captures the heart of San Antonioâs rich cultural traditions.
When: Friday, October 25, 2024, at 7 PM
Where: San Antonio River Walk
đMuertos Fest at Hemisfair
Muertos Fest returns for its 12th year of celebrating DĂa de los Muertos with a two-day, in-person festival at Hemisfair Park. Recognized as one of San Antonioâs most beloved cultural events, Muertos Fest offers an exciting blend of live music, cultural performances, art, and, of course, the signature Day of the Dead altars. This year, over 80 altars will be on display, providing a beautiful tribute to departed loved ones.
The event also features five stages with live music, dance, poetry, and DJ performances, along with a Muertos Mercado with more than 70 curated vendors. Donât miss the processions on Saturday at 7 PM and Sunday at 3 PM, as they wind through the heart of Hemisfair.
Whether youâre looking to honor tradition, enjoy live performances, or shop for unique art, Muertos Fest is a vibrant and meaningful way to experience DĂa de los Muertos in San Antonio.
When: Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Where: Hemisfair Park, 434 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
𧥠DĂa de los Muertos Festival at La Villita
Celebrate DĂa de los Muertos at one of San Antonioâs most vibrant festivals, set in the heart of La Villita Historic Arts Village. This free, family-friendly event will feature enchanting lights, live music, delicious food, and engaging cultural activities.
A highlight of the festival is the towering 38.5-foot La Catrina, the largest in the United States, serving as a stunning tribute to this iconic figure of Mexican culture.
Over the weekend, you can explore art exhibitions such as the Calavera Collection, featuring 25 giant skulls crafted by local artists, and the captivating Alebrije Exhibit, showcasing giant âSpirit Animalsâ from Mexican folklore. Children can also enjoy face painting and participate in fun workshops, including an altar kit and painting workshop.
This weekend is packed with festivities, tradition, and joy, perfect for all ages.
When: Friday, October 25 - Sunday, October 27, 2024
Where: La Villita Historic Arts Village, 418 Villita St, San Antonio, TX 78205
đ DĂa de Muertos @ Rinconcito
Join the annual DĂa de los Muertos celebration at Rinconcito de Esperanza and honor the traditions of Mexican heritage and the Westside community. This free event will feature community altars/ofrendas, live music, face painting, food, and a variety of workshops. Highlights include readings of literary ofrendas and calavera poems that humorously engage with life and death. There will also be a neighborhood procession, where participants are encouraged to dress up and bring instruments or noise makers to join the festivities.
Donât miss the chance to visit MujerArtes Cooperativa de Esperanza, where local artists will be selling beautiful Day of the Dead clay artworks. Vegan food options will be available, and dancing is encouraged! Bring your chairs and settle in for an evening of performances and cultural celebration.
When: Friday, November 1, 2024, from 4 PM to 10 PM
Where: Rinconcito de Esperanza, 816 S. Colorado (@ Guadalupe St), San Antonio, TX 78207
đ This Weekâs Events:
đ Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival
If youâre looking for an unforgettable night in the heart of San Antonio, the Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival is the perfect choice.
On October 19th, 2024, from 6 PM to midnight, St. Paul Square will transform into a vibrant, immersive celebration of art, music, and culture. This yearâs free, all-ages event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring various artists and performers from across mediums, including installation art, live music, dance, poetry, aerial acrobatics, and more.
This yearâs festival has moved to the historic St. Paul Square, a site rich with cultural significance. Once a bustling hub for Black musicians during segregation, the area hosted legends like Louis Armstrong and Fats Domino. Today, Luminaria honors this legacy by uniting artists and art lovers for a night of creativity, community, and celebration.
Luminaria isnât just a festival; itâs a chance to immerse yourself in the cultural and artistic fabric of San Antonio. Whether youâre an art enthusiast or just looking for something unique to do, this festival is sure to light up your weekend.
Again, the event is free, but for those looking to enhance the experience, VIP tickets are available, offering access to prime viewing points, a VIP lounge, and other perks.
When: October 19th, 2024 - 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Where: St. Paul Square
đ Burger Showdown 5.0
The Burger Showdown 5.0 is back for another exciting year, and this time, itâs bigger than ever! Hosted by Homegrown Chef and The Flavors of Texas, this burger competition features 10 excellent San Antonio chefs going head-to-head to create the best gourmet sliders.
Youâll also enjoy Krazy Katsuâs signature Kimchi Fries and delicious desserts from Texas Cookie Shop. Not only will you get to vote for your favorite burger, but a panel of local judges will be on hand to select the top burger as well.
Get your tickets now and secure your spot for this night of food and fun.
- When: Friday, October 18, 2024, from 7 PM to 10 PM
- Where: Alamo Beer Company, 202 Lamar St, San Antonio, TX 78202
đ Fall Festival at Helton Nature Park
Celebrate fall at Helton Nature Park in Floresville with this family-friendly, free event! The festival features a fun-filled day of activities, including a fall maze, live music, animal shows, hayrides, sâmores, and even a costume contest.
Nestled among towering pecan trees and along the San Antonio River, Helton Nature Park offers scenic trails, picnic areas, and plenty of space for outdoor fun, making it a perfect place for this autumn celebration.
When: Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 11 AM to 4 PM
Where: Helton Nature Park, 15662 FM 775, Floresville, TX
đ (Re)Discover Something New:
If you havenât seen San Antonio | The Saga, now is the perfect time to rediscover this stunning light show at Main Plaza as it celebrates 10 years of captivating audiences!
Since its debut in 2014, The Saga has illuminated the facade of San Fernando Cathedral with a 24-minute video art projection that tells the rich history of San Antonio through vivid imagery, stirring music, and dynamic visuals.
Running Tuesday through Sunday at 9 PM and 9:30 PM, rain or shine, this free event is a must-see for newcomers and longtime residents alike. With this milestone anniversary, itâs the perfect moment to experience (or re-experience) this iconic show in San Antonioâs heart.
đ One Read: A Day Without Water
In recognition of October 17thâs âImagine a Day Without Waterâ campaign, weâre bringing attention to waterway protection efforts in San Antonio. If you missed it, check out our recent article and podcast episode about River Aid San Antonio and their mission to clean and preserve our cityâs waterways. The work of River Aid is a shining example of community-driven efforts to protect our most precious resourceâwater.
READ MORE𤨠Did You Know?
Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures that combine fantastical elements from animals, humans, and mythological creatures. They are more than just vibrant art pieces; they blend the natural and spiritual worlds.
Traditionally believed to offer protection and guidance, Alebrijes are thought to be spiritual guides that help bridge the physical and otherworldly realms. Their bold colors and imaginative forms make them powerful symbols of Mexican folklore, creativity, and resilience.
These extraordinary creatures were created in the 1940s by artist Pedro Linares, who envisioned them during a feverish dream. Since then, they have become widely recognized and celebrated, contributing to Mexicoâs art economy and inspiring artists around the globe. While not tied initially to DĂa de los Muertos, they have become a vibrant part of modern celebrations, often symbolizing the journey between life and death.
This year, you can experience the magic of Alebrijes right here in San Antonio. As part of the DĂa de los Muertos Tradition Trail, 10 large Alebrijes will be displayed along the River Walk, offering a perfect opportunity to see these incredible sculptures up close.
Locations include Arneson Stage, Stargazer Bridge, and Shops at Rivercenter.
To learn more about the history of Alebrijes, check out the full article from the Timothy S. Y. Lam Museum of Anthropology and explore the DĂa de los Muertos Tradition Trail.
đąTexas Nature Journal: H-E-B Native Plant Sale
As a member of the Native Plant Society of Texas, I couldnât help but share this exciting opportunity to get more native plants in the ground.
From October 14 to October 30, 2024, 200+ H-E-B stores will offer a selection of Texas Native Plants (like Turk's Cap, Flame Acanthus, Rock Rose, and more) as part of their collaboration with the Native Plant Society of Texas and Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation.
You can even meet with Native Plant Society volunteers at select stores on October 16 and 19 to get expert advice and receive free native seed packets for planting your own âpocket prairie.â
Check out which H-E-B stores will be selling native plants and what plants you'll be able to find here.
đĽ Rapid Fire Recs
đ King William Area Yard SaleâOn Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 9 AM to 2 PM, the historic King William Area will host its 33rd Annual Yard Sale. Whether youâre hunting for antiques or unique finds or just want to stroll through one of San Antonioâs most beautiful neighborhoods, this event is a must-see. [More Details Here]
đĽ Ladinoâs 2nd Anniversary Party â Celebrate Ladinoâs second anniversary with unlimited bites, two beverages, and live fire cooking by guest chefs Curry Boys and Leche de Tigre. Family-friendly activities are included! October 20th, 3:00 PM at Ladino, Pearl. [Buy tickets here]
đş Jazz in the Garden âEnjoy free live jazz performances by the Toro Flores Quintet in the serene setting of the Japanese Tea Garden, this Friday, October 18th, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM. [More info here]
đ§ Haunted House: Urban Legends of San Antonio â Get ready for eight rooms of terror at the 2nd Annual Haunted House in the Blue Star Arts Complex. This spooky event runs from October 24 to October 27, with the haunting starting at 7 PM and going until 11 PM. Entry is just $10, so come if you dare! [More Details Here]
Thatâs all for this week.
If you check out any of these spots or events, reply to this email and let me know what you thinkâIâd love to hear about your experience.
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Until next time,
-Cory
